Melbourne Airport’s new AUD$500 million international baggage system begins final trials ahead of its rollout in March 2026, doubling capacity and enabling real-time tracking from check-in to loading onto the aircraft.
Testing is underway on the new high-tech baggage system by German logistics manufacturer Beumer Group, which can process more than 4,000 bags per hour compared to the current 1,800 bags.
Bags will be carried on totes and electronically sorted into a new early bag store, holding up to 1,400 bags, before being automatically dispatched in flight order.
This will provide airlines with real-time luggage tracking, reducing the number of lost bags and improving on-time efficiency.
The project required the installation of a 3.6km baggage line network – the same length as Melbourne Airport’s longest runway.
It comes as Melbourne Airport reported its busiest October ever for international journeys with a total of 1,032,448 travellers.
Melbourne Airport Chief of Aviation Jim Parashos said the new system and early bag store would enable future growth for international airlines.
“Our international passenger numbers are at record levels and with three new airlines touching down next month, it’s shaping up as a really testing summer for our old baggage infrastructure,” he said.
“Having an automated bag store will allow us to let passengers check-in much earlier for their flights and in the future, will enable true anytime check-in, which is exciting for both airlines and travellers.
“This system will more than double our baggage handling capacity when it comes online in March, giving us the infrastructure we need to support future international growth.”
For more info, visit melbourneairport.com.au
